If you are on the fence about getting dental implants or just want to learn more about what they are, then you’ve come to the right place.
Dental implants are a relatively new technology that is not very well known. As such, many have doubts as to whether a dental implant is right for them.
That being said, let’s look at the top 10 dental implants FAQs.
Top 10 Dental Implants FAQs
1. What Are Dental Implants?
Unlike dentures and bridges, dental implants function like a real tooth.
They are composed of three parts: 1.) The screw which acts as an artificial root and is firmly attached to the jaw bone, 2.) the abutment which connects the screw and the crown, 3.) the crown which acts as the upper part of your tooth that can be seen.
Dental implants are designed to last for decades and are molded to look like the real thing. Furthermore, they don’t need any special treatment and will last long if you practice regular oral hygiene—just like you would with any other tooth in your mouth.
2. How Painful Is Dental Implant Surgery?
The good news is that anesthesia is given so that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. You’ll likely only feel some pressure as the oral surgeon performs the surgery. After the procedure, you’ll likely be prescribed pain medication to deal with any discomfort.
3. Can Your Body Reject a Dental Implant?
Dental implant failure is rare and when it does happen, it is commonly due to poor oral health. On some occasions, your body may have an allergic reaction to the implant, but this is unlikely as your oral surgeon will take into account any known allergies you have before the procedure.
4. How Long Do Dental Implants Take to Heal?
The good news is that after the procedure is finished, you can usually return to your normal eating habits within a couple of days. They should be fully healed within a couple of months.
As for the procedure itself, once the screw is implanted into the jawbone, you have to wait for a couple of months for the jawbone to grow around the screw. Once healed, the abundant and crown are attached to the screw and the procedure is finished.
5. Are Dental Implants Expensive?
Dental implants are more expensive than, for example, dentures and bridges, but they can last for decades. As such, they are worth the investment when factoring in the duration of the implant.
6. Can Dental Implants Be Removed?
Dental implants are firmly fixed to your mouth just like real teeth and cannot be removed like dentures can.
7. Are Dental Implants Dangerous?
While dental implants are a new technology, they are not dangerous. In fact, dental implants have become a common solution to tooth decay and loss.
8. What Are the Pros of Dental Implants?
Dental implants have many benefits such as:
- They can last a lifetime
- They are designed to look like a natural tooth
- They can improve speech
- They are low-maintenance
- They are for anyone 20 years and older
9. What Are the Cons of Dental Implants?
One of the major cons of dental implants is how long the entire procedure can take. This is because once the screw is implanted in the jawbone, a couple of months are needed for the bone to grow around the implant before the rest of the procedure can be completed.
10. Who Should Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants are ideal for those with missing or decaying teeth. It is also important that you have healthy oral tissues and a fully grown jawbone. Dental implants are great for those with dentures and bridges who want to switch to a more permanent and convenient option.
Ultimately, it’s best to consult with an oral surgeon to see if dental implants are a good option for you. On that note, if you have any questions or want to talk to an oral surgeon, contact us today.
